[mkdf_dropcaps type=”normal” color=”#f55549″ background_color=””]S[/mkdf_dropcaps]
wimming Australia has announced a new partnership with MLC, seeing the wealth management company commit for three years as the exclusive partner of the National Flippers program.

The new partnership will see MLC support Australia’s next generation of swimmers through the program, via national clinics, camps, and competitions.

Swimming Australia CEO, Leigh Russell, said she is happy to welcome MLC’s investment during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic.

“I know it has been said a lot, but these really are unprecedented times for Australia and for sport, so to have a trusted brand like MLC come on board and support swimming whilst we are all navigating this new normal is just fantastic,” Russell said.

“Rebuilding sport at all levels is going to take time, and during this phase it’s going to be crucial for the industry that we have commitments from companies like MLC who are wholeheartedly invested in the health and well-being of our communities.

“Our next wave of talent is vital to the lifeblood of swimming as they look to continue the strong legacy of champions we have established in this country.

“It’s these athletes who are aiming to debut in Paris 2024 we class as our ‘gold dust’, they are rare, valuable, and require nurturing and skilful handling as they navigate their path through to the elite system,” she said.

MLC Wealth CEO, Geoff Lloyd, said he is excited to help young Australian swimmers reach the pinnacle of world sport.

“MLC is thrilled to be partnering with Swimming Australia and supporting this national sport and pastime which enriches and inspires our country on so many levels,” Lloyd said.

“For more than 130 years MLC has been helping Australians create confidence in their financial future.

“Much like high-performance sport, wealth creation is a long-term pursuit that requires discipline and patience, and inevitably has to take into account short-term shocks and unexpected issues, such as the coronavirus pandemic.

“As Australians get back into the water and Swimming Australia’s athletes resume training, we are proud to be there as a new long-term partner,” he said.

The National Flippers program that MLC is now an exclusive partner of is aimed at preparing and nurturing selected athletes who are showing potential, with the hope they can successfully transition to the senior team and represent Australia at major international events within the next four-six years.